2017-06 Fedco Minutes

KENNEL UNION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE FEDERAL COUNCIL HELD ON SATURDAY and SUNDAY 10th and 11th JUNE 2017 COMMENCING 08h30 ON SATURDAY AT THE KENNEL UNION OFFICES, 68 BREE STREET, CAPE TOWN

ATTENDANCE, APOLOGIES & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Attendance:

Mr CJL Griffith (Chairman) - CG

Mrs JM Hubbard (Vice-Chairman & Chairman – NAPC) - JH

Mrs JD Barrow (Chairman – EC&BPC) - JB

Mrs C Buitendach (Chairman - FS&NCPC) - CB

Mr RJ Dempsey (Chairman – KZNPC) - RD

Mrs CM Immelman (Vice-Chairman – DOGSPC) - CI

Mrs DE Powell (Chairman – WCPC) - DP

Mr BG Robinson (Chairman – DOGSPC) - GR

Mrs L Wilson (Chairman – Exco) - LW

Staff in Attendance:

Mrs P Midgley (General Manager) - PM

Ms SA Thornberry (Secretary) - ST

Mrs A Bastick (Club Affairs Dept) - AB

Apologies: Nil

The Chairman welcomed all present and extended a special word of welcome to Mrs Carine Buitendach, Chairman of Free State & Northern Cape Provincial Council, and Mr Richard Dempsey, Chairman of KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Council, who were attending their first Fedco meeting as Chairmen of their Provcos.

The Chairman requested all present to stand and observe a minute’s silence in honour of the following persons who had passed away since the last Fedco meeting:

With a full complement of 9 Federal Councillors present, the Chairman declared a two-thirds majority for the changing of Articles and Schedules to be 6, whereas 5 would constitute a simple majority required for other decisions.

MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting held on 3 and 4 December 2016 were formally adopted and confirmed unanimously.

JH, DP

ADMINISTRATION MATTERS

3.1 KUSA Budget 2017/2018

The proposed Budget for 2017/2018 was discussed and adopted unanimously.

GR, RD

3.2 Loss of Affiliation – Article 9

3.2.1 Article 9.1.3

“Failure to submit Minutes of Annual and/or Special General Meetings together with audited financial statements and balance sheets where applicable in terms of Article 8.6.2 of the Kennel Union Constitution”

The following list of Clubs, which are in default in terms of Article 9.1.3 above, was circulated:

Eastern ProvinceBull Terrier Club – Financial Year-end 28 Feb 2016 (due 31 May 2016). No Meeting held. No documents received. This Club was affiliated in July 2015. No AGM or Shows have been held and attempts by the Provco and the KUSA Office to contact any Club officials have been unsuccessful.

After discussion, it was agreed that a letter would be sent to the following Clubs advising that, should all outstanding or incomplete documentation not be received by 31 August 2017, the Clubs will be disaffiliated:

Smooth Fox Terrier Club of Transvaal

SA Rhodesian Ridgeback Club

The Provco Chairmen undertook to follow up with the other defaulting Clubs in their areas.

3.2.2 Article 9.1.4

The following Clubs are in default in terms of Articles 9.1.4, i.e. “Failure to adhere to Kennel Union Constitutional requirements in respect of 9.1.4.1 “Any event to be held, being held or which has been held under a Kennel Union licence” and 9.1.4.2 “Schedule of Documents and Returns to be sent to the Secretary of KUSA, Schedule 8.”

Penalties for late submission of documents outstanding as per Schedule 3 Regulation 5.15 & 5.17

Dalmatian Club – Championship Show held 12 Oct 2014 (Breed) - R888.00

The current policy is that Clubs that have not paid levies are not issued with licences for their next show. Discussion ensued on Clubs that are not up to date with the submission of AGM Minutes and Audited Financial Statements and it was resolved unanimously that, w.e.f. 01.01.2018, no licences will be issued for either Championship, or Non-Championship, Shows, unless Clubs are up to date with all returns required in terms of the KUSA Constitution.

A notice to alert Clubs to this change in KUSA policy needs to be sent in advance.

A ‘job description’ for members of the CCC committee was tabled. The Provincial Council Chairmen were requested to appoint, as soon as possible, the representatives to serve on the CCC committee and to advise JH accordingly.

AB had prepared a report for CI’s attention, highlighting the increasing number of requests from Clubs to hold teleconferences and virtual meetings, and also focussing on other requirements in the Specimen Club Constitution that Clubs find problematic.

CI undertook to liaise with Mr David Thompson and anticipated to have a report ready for circulation to Fedco by August.

Following previous discussions at Fedco originating from a discussion around Pitbulls being permitted to participate in CGC, the NAPC had formed a task team to address the concept of KUSA-recognition of trainers.

A proposal from the NAPC task team was circulated and approved in principle.

An amended document to be sent to Exco for distribution to the Obedience NSC and other NSCs.

JB and AB to examine the form used by KUSA Representatives and to compile a document setting out what the Office required from a Show Manager. There was general agreement that the Show Manager should be a member of KUSA. Separate guidelines should be compiled on how to deal with dog-biting incidents (Schedule 3 Regulation 14), complaints and objections to dogs with reference made to the relevant Regulations, i.e. Schedule 3 Regulation 31 - Objection to Dogs and Disqualifications, and Schedule 3 Regulation 37 - Fraudulent and Discreditable Conduct.

Now that it is no longer mandatory to have a KUSA Representative present at a Show, practical guidelines for the Show Manager are necessary.

GR to amend the document to include reference the above-mentioned Regulations.

Final document to be tabled at Fedco 12-2017.

To be carried forward to next agenda.

3.8 KUSA Communication Platforms (Fedco 12-2016 item 9.18)

Status of KUSA Gazette & Social Media Management – (maintenance of Facebook page to be reviewed)

CI will compile and circulate a report after her meeting with KUSA staff member, Karene Karstadt.

In accordance with the directives of Fedco, Clr Robinson has drafted a revised Pledge, which is now in use.

KUSA’s contribution to the REMF for Crufts 2018 will be determined at Fedco 12-2017.

Noted

Congratulations to Shea Wright, the new KUSA National Junior Handler.

CI undertook to set up a new Facebook page to publicise fundraising activities and results and, together with GR, committed to mentoring Shea Wright and her parents with regard to possible fundraising initiatives.

3.10 KUSA Banking Arrangements

New banking resolution signed to update banking signatories.

New resolution signed for CBA photocopier lease.

Approved unanimously

GR, JH

3.11 Centres – Article 13 and Schedule 3 Regulation 2.1.1

NAPC wishes to balance the Centres allocated to Clubs that fall under its jurisdiction.

Motivation:

When the NAPC was originally formed, it was decided, for ease of administration, that it would not request additional Centres, but operate within the two Centres already allocated to Gauteng, those being the Eastern and Western Districts of Gauteng and Surrounds. However, over the years, with the affiliation of new Clubs, the allocation of Centres has become unbalanced within the Province.

This proposal seeks to request Fedco to consider changes to the NAPC’s Centres to balance out the Centres within the Province. Further, it is suggested that all Provinces review the distribution of Clubs within their Provinces to achieve a balance. Careful consideration should be given to the allocation of a Centre to any new Club seeking affiliation within a Province in order to maintain the balance.

Article 13 - Centres currently reads:

13.1 For better administration by the Kennel Union, the areas of Southern Africa falling within its jurisdiction shall be divided into geographical Centres as defined in Schedule 3 (Regulations for Championship Shows) Regulation 2.1.1.

13.2 The boundaries of such Centres enumerated therein shall be guided by but not restricted to the ordinary geographical boundaries observed by the State or Province as the case may be as at 28 February 1997.

Schedule 3 Regulation 2:

2.1.1 In this context and for better administration by the Kennel Union, the

area of Southern Africa falling under its jurisdiction shall be divided into geographical Centres as follows:

Eastern District of Gauteng and Surrounds

Western District of Gauteng and Surrounds

KwaZulu-Natal (Southern Coastal Region)

KwaZulu-Natal (Northern, Northern Coastal & Midlands Regions)

Free State

Northern Cape

Eastern Cape & North Eastern Cape

Border & Transkei

Western Cape

Boland & South Cape

Namibia

and such additional areas as defined by FEDCO/KUSA from time to time in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of KUSA.

2.1.2 The boundaries of such centres enumerated in Regulation 2.1.1 above

shall be guided by but not restricted to the ordinary geographical boundaries observed by the State or Province, as the case may be.

A proposal by NAPC relating to the allocation of Clubs in its area was circulated and approved unanimously.

JH, CI

Discussion ensued on the need for Centres as currently defined in the Constitution and it was suggested that geographical provinces would be more appropriate, combined with the elimination of the ‘away point’ for Champion status.

It was agreed that a proposal needs to be prepared for consideration at Fedco 12-2017.

To be carried forward to next agenda.

3.12 Boxers (Fedco 12-2016 item 9.1)

Progress report given.

Noted

3.13 FCI

3.13.1 FCI Show Judges Commission – Breed-by-Breed Education

The FCI has requested all the NCOs to prepare Breed-by-Breed PowerPoint presentations for their national breeds in order to use them for national and international education purposes. Despite efforts to encourage NCOs to develop and publish this important breed information, only a few countries have obliged.Feedback on KUSA’s contribution (Rhodesian Ridgeback).

LW informed the meeting that she has had various discussions on this issue and anticipated that completion of the project would require another six weeks, after which it would be presented to Fedco.

Work in progress.

3.13.2 FCI Judges List for South African Judges

The updating of the FCI Judges List for South African Judges is to be completed by July 2017. To date only the updating of All-Breeds Judges has been completed.

Report on work in progress indicated that this was a complicated procedure, since KUSA Judges are listed as per KUSA Groups, whereas the FCI has a different Group structure.

LW had advised the Chairman of the FCI Judges Commission (Mr J Wauben) that the work would not be completed by July 2017 and he had confirmed that this would not be a problem, provided that the FCI had the assurance that work was progressing.

The new application form, “Nomination as FCI All-breed International Judge”, which is now compulsory, will also be used for future All-Breeds Judges as they qualify.

It was agreed that this should be followed up with an email to Mr Y De Clercq, advising that the exercise would be completed as soon as possible.

As there was insufficient manpower within the KUSA Judges Department to complete the exercise within a reasonable timeframe, LW offered assistance.

Agreed that the invite should be extended to this year’s KUSA National Junior Handler, with letter of explanation regarding self-funding and provision of own dog.

If the winner is unable to accept the invitation, then the handler placed 2nd may be promoted, followed, sequentially, by the handlers placed 3rd and 4th.

Agreed unanimously

LW, CI

3.13.4 FCI General Assembly – Leipzig – November 2017

Nomination of KUSA representative to attend the above.

CG proposed that LW attends on behalf of KUSA, with KUSA contributing the conference fees and accommodation costs. It was noted that the agenda was not yet available and LW undertook to seek Fedco’s directives on voting. However, should composite directives not be forthcoming from Fedco by a specified deadline, it was agreed that she would be at liberty to use her discretion in voting, naturally always guided by the bests interests of KUSA.

MATTERS ARISING

4.1 Any Matters Related to the Articles

4.1.1 Article 12.5 (Fedco 12-16 item 9.8)

“12.5 Any member nominated to sit on any Council, Committee or Sub-Committee of the Kennel Union shall declare within one (1) month of appointment to the Secretary in writing all their interests, of whatsoever nature, in dog related activities. Where the governing body of the Kennel Union, or such person or persons to whom the authority is delegated, determine that any interests are in conflict with those of the Kennel Union, such nominated members’ appointment shall ipso facto be terminated.”

At Fedco 12-2016, it was commented that the above Article is unmanageable and needs to be amended. It places an unnecessary administrative burden on Councils and on KUSA and probably most of what may be ruled a “conflict” will be open to challenge under the Bill of Rights of the SA Constitution.

An opinion was requested from the Legal Adviser who recommended that it should be retained for senior officials such as Federal Councillors, members of the Executive Committee and Executive Members of Provcos.

Suggested amendment:

Article 12.5:

“12.5 Any member nominated to sit on [any Council, Committee or Sub-Committee] the FederalCouncil, the Executive Committee of the Kennel Union as well as the Executive members (Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer) of any Provincial Council of the Kennel Union, shall declare within one (1) month of appointment to the Secretary in writing all their interests, of whatsoever nature, in dog-related activities. Where the governing body of the Kennel Union, or such person or persons to whom the authority is delegated, determine that any interests are in conflict with those of the Kennel Union, such nominated members’ appointment shall ipso facto be terminated.”

Approved unanimously

JH, CI

Effective 01.02.2018

4.1.2 Article 14.4

Proposal by NAPC regarding Election of the Executive Committee

Motivation:

Under the present Articles, it is not possible for Exco to meet in January of the year following the expiration of its four-year term due to the 60 days’ nomination period following the election of the Chairman of the Federal Council. This sometimes also affects the February meeting. In order for the duties and meetings of Exco to continue uninterrupted, it is proposed that the outgoing Exco will remain in place and can continue to carry out its duties during the period of sixty days provided for nominations and acceptances.

remove [ ] insert underlined

14.4 On assuming office, the Chairman of the Federal Council shall instruct the Chairman of each Province and the Vice-Chairman of DOGSPC to obtain, within sixty (60) days of the receipt of such instructions, the name and written acceptance of a nominee elected by the Provincial Council to sit on the Executive Committee. [If for whatever reason, nominations cannot be finalized within the 60 day period, the Federal Council shall carry out the duties of the Executive Committee wherever the Chairman of the Federal Council deems it necessary for the continuation of the efficient running of KUSA affairs.] Such nominee shall remain in Office until the termination of the period of office of the Chairman of the Federal Council and such further period as contemplated in 14.5 below provided that the appointment is acceptable to all the Provincial Council Chairm[a]en of the Federal Council. Further, nothing herein shall preclude the Chairman of the Federal Council from removing from Office any member of the Executive Committee at any time subject to confirmation of the Federal Council. Such members of the Executive Committee who terminate their period of office with the Chairman of the Federal Council shall be eligible for reappointment. Should, for any reason a member of the Executive Committee not be able to continue in Office a new Provincial nominee shall be appointed following the procedure detailed above.

14.5During the nomination and acceptance period of sixty (60) days, the outgoing ExecutiveCommittee shall remain in place and carry out its duties until the name and acceptance of every nominee has been received and confirmed by the Chairman of the Federal Council.

14.6 The newly elected and confirmed Executive Committee shall, at its first meeting, from amongst themselves elect a Chairman and a Vice-Chairman. The Chairman shall represent the Committee at the Federal Council Meetings. In the absence of the Chairman the Vice- Chairman shall represent the Committee.

14.7 The Provincial Council Chairmen and Vice-Chairman of the District of Gauteng and Surrounds members of the Federal Council shall submit to the Secretary nominations for the offices of President and of Chairman of the Federal Council which shall be placed on the Agenda for the last Federal Council meeting to be held in the fourth year of the terms of office of the current President and Chairman of the Federal Council.

Clean submission is therefore:

14.4 On assuming office, the Chairman of the Federal Council shall instruct the Chairman of each Province and the Vice-Chairman of DOGSPC to obtain, within sixty (60) days of the receipt of such instructions, the name and written acceptance of a nominee elected by the Provincial Council to sit on the Executive Committee. Such nominee shall remain in Office until the termination of the period of office of the Chairman of the Federal Council and such further period as contemplated in 14.5 below provided that the appointment is acceptable to all the Provincial Council Chairmen of the Federal Council. Further, nothing herein shall preclude the Chairman of the Federal Council from removing from Office any member of the Executive Committee at any time subject to confirmation of the Federal Council. Such members of the Executive Committee who terminate their period of office with the Chairman of the Federal Council shall be eligible for reappointment. Should, for any reason a member of the Executive Committee not be able to continue in Office a new Provincial nominee shall be appointed following the procedure detailed above.

14.5 During the nomination and acceptance period of sixty (60) days, the outgoing Executive Committee shall remain in place and carry out its duties until the name and acceptance of every nominee has been received and confirmed by the Chairman of the Federal Council.

14.6 The newly elected and confirmed Executive Committee shall, at its first meeting, from amongst themselves elect a Chairman and a Vice-Chairman. The Chairman shall represent the Committee at the Federal Council Meetings. In the absence of the Chairman the Vice-Chairman shall represent the Committee.

14.7 The Provincial Council Chairmen and Vice-Chairman of the District of Gauteng and Surrounds members of the Federal Council shall submit to the Secretary nominations for the offices of President and of Chairman of the Federal Council which shall be placed on the Agenda for the last Federal Council meeting to be held in the fourth year of the terms of office of the current President and Chairman of the Federal Council.

It was agreed at Fedco 12-2016 that the addition of extra owners on Affixes needs to be addressed.

(Task team CI & JH)

Report on work in progress to be discussed.

Report by CI circulated and agreed in principle.

Proposal to be prepared by CI for Fedco 12-2017.

To be carried forward to next agenda.

4.4 Any Matters Relating to Breed Standards

(Please note that the wording at the beginning and end of the Breed Standards, as agreed to at Fedco 06-2015, will be added to all the Breed Standards.)

LW reported that she had completed the last batch of changes and thanked the KUSA staff, particularly Dawn Rosier and Karene Karstadt.

4.4.1 Amendments to FCI Breed Standards:

4.4.1.1 Working Group

4.4.1.1.1 Giant Schnauzer

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

NAPC received a query from the Nördlicher Verein für Deutsche Hunde Rassen regarding the wording of the tail clause.

Discussion ensued and it was suggested that the following citation should appear in square brackets at the end of the tail clause: [*refer note below]. Reference to FCI Circular 20-16 should then be made at bottom of breed standard, preceded by an asterisk.

LW and GR to devise appropriate wording.

It was foreseen that the same form of citation could be used in all standards where the implementation of certain clauses, whether in their entirety, or in part, was suspended for reasons approved by Fedco.

Further information was required to support objections to the amendments.

A discussion on the acceptance, by KUSA, of the new Dobermann Breed Standard ensued and CG requested that a specimen new Breed Standard, featuring the proposed citation and asterisked directive (see 4.4.1.1.1 above) be prepared and forwarded to him for distribution to, and consideration by, the Dobermann fraternity.

Deferred

4.4.1.2 Utility Group

4.4.1.2.1 Shiba

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2 Amendments to Kennel Club Breed Standards:

4.4.2.1 Terrier Group

4.4.2.1.1 Sealyham Terrier

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.1.2 Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.1.3 Parson Russell Terrier

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.1.4 Norwich Terrier

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2 Working Group

4.4.2.2.1 Leonberger

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2.2 Neapolitan Mastiff

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2.3 Newfoundland

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2.4 Mastiff

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2.5 Pyrenean Mountain Dog

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2.6 Tibetan Mastiff

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2.7 Great Dane

Revised Breed Standard attached to agenda

Approved

4.4.2.2.8 Bullmastiff (Fedco 12-2016 item 4.4.2.2.1)

The amendments to the above Breed Standard were deferred from Fedco 12-2016 due to objections received from both Bullmastiff Clubs. The Clubs were requested to consult with the parent club in the UK and the following reply has been received from Caroline Hallett of The Kennel Club:

“We are in receipt of your letter of 2 February 2017. The concern about the change in the Bullmastiff breed standard is noted. The phrase ‘circumference of skull may equal height of dog measured at the top of the shoulder’ was removed in February 2009 from the Kennel Club Bullmastiff Breed Standard. At that time, the UK breed clubs were consulted. It has been very rare that a judge has ever measured the circumference of a Bullmastiff’s skull in the show ring and it was felt that such a comparison was not really relevant. The standard still asks for ‘skull large and square viewed from every angle’, and it was felt that this is sufficient to stress the importance of a strong head in the breed.

You will note that the universal introductory paragraph to Kennel Club breed standards stresses the importance of keeping all breeds free of exaggerated traits. Whilst you mention the head as the ‘hallmark’ of the Bullmastiff, it is not desirable that any point dominates a judge’s evaluation.

In the UK it is the practice that breed clubs hold seminars to educate breeders, exhibitors and judges on the essential points of breed type.”

Clrs Immelman and Wilson were tasked to prepare the draft policy for adoption to changes of Breed Standards and the conducting of referenda. The interim procedure agreed by Fedco for the Borzoi to serve as a sample case to be taken into account when reaching a decision on final policy.

Referendum to be conducted on the same terms and conditions as those set for the Borzoi.

Work in progress.

Brief discussion ensued on the reasons for lack of progress. It was agreed that the referendum will be completed as soon as possible and that Fedco will be informed of result. As with the Borzoi, the FCI Breed Standard for the Belgian Shepherd Dog will be accepted on confirmation that the majority of those who had participated in the referendum had opted to change to the FCI standard.

In response to a request made at Fedco12-2016 as to when the criteria document to qualify for a Specialisation Course was likely to be completed, the following information has been received from the NBJSC:

“At any time during the course of specialisation studies, allowing sufficient time before the portfolio deadline, learners must please contact Joy (the Curriculum Developer) with regard to the content and requirements for Module 7: The Breed Assignment. Joy will set out and explain the assignment, and mark it after submission. On the successful completion of the breed assignment, the learner must include it in the portfolio for submission to the PBJSC Chairman by the relevant closing date (1 April or 1 September).

The following Specialisation Courses are currently on offer: Rottweiler & Bull Terrier, with German Shepherd Dogs currently in progress.”

Noted, with the unanimous view that the NBJSC has not provided the criteria requested by Fedco.

To be referred back to NBJSC with the repeated request that Fedco required a document setting out the criteria for the development of a Breed Specialisation Course and needed to know when such document was likely to be completed by the NBJSC for Fedco’s consideration.

The following item is referred by Exco in terms of Article 43, as Fedco is the only authority for the interpretation of the Constitution and all Schedules, etc.

Extract from Exco 02-2017:

“KUSA Judges are required to be at least 18 years of age, however, this is no longer clear in the Regulations, resulting in a minor being permitted to judge a Non- Championship Agility event.

Background:

It was agreed at Fedco 05-2010 that the following Articles be moved to Schedule 3:

Article 25– Judges (25.1 to 25.5)

Article 26 – Powers of Club Show Committees

Article 27 – Champion Dogs (27.1 to 27.8)

Article 28 – Breeder’s Diploma

Accordingly, the above Clauses were inserted into Schedule 3 as Clauses 34, 41, 42 and 43.

Article 25 re Judges was moved to Schedule 3 Regulation 34 – 34.5 – this includes the wording “…be a member in good standing of the Kennel Union, who shall be over the age of 18 years…”

Schedule 4 also had the same wording for many years until 2013.

At Fedco 05-2012, it was resolved “that all items that are presently in Schedules 3, 4 and 4A relating to Judges and/or Judging are to be moved to the new Schedule 10.”

The amended Schedules were circulated to Fedco and approved at Fedco 12-2012 with an effective date of 01.07.2013.

This resulted in the reference to the age limit being moved out of Schedule 4 to Schedule 10, which is specifically for Breed Judges and not for Working Disciplines. It, however, still remains in Schedule 3.

Schedule 5L, which clearly sets out the requirements to become an Agility Judge, makes no reference to the age limit. Schedule 5L Reg 1.1 does say under 1.1 Licensing and Show Rules “The Regulations relating to licensing and to all other matters to do with shows as set out in Schedule 3 (Championship Shows), Schedule 3A and Schedule 4 (Non-Championship Shows) of the Constitution of the Kennel Union of SA shall apply to competition for Agility Shows so far as they can be relevant to Agility Shows and so far as they do not conflict with the specific terms of this Schedule 5L.”

This may have covered the age limit had it not been removed from Schedule 4.

Exco recommends that this loophole be closed, as it was never the intention that a person under the age of 18 should be permitted to judge. The KUSA Office is aware that the candidate Judge wishes to apply for two more Non-Championship Show appointments before November this year.

In the ensuing discussion, Fedco upheld Exco’s recommendation that any loopholes should be closed and the following was agreed unanimously:

(1) Article 25, which is currently “VOID”, to read as follows:

JUDGES

All locally domiciled Judges shall be members in good standing of the Kennel Union and shall be over the age of eighteen (18) years at the time when formal studies or activities towards a judging qualification commence, and/or any judging is undertaken.

(2) The above wording is to be applied to all relevant Schedules.

Effective 01.02.2018

(3) In view of the circumstances, Fedco further agreed unanimously that the qualifications already gained by the underage Judge will stand, as what had taken place had not transgressed the rules in force at the time. With regard to the acceptance of further judging invitations between now and November when the Judge turns eighteen (18), it was understood that such invitations were neither to be extended, nor to be accepted.

A Show Committee will have the power to exclude, refuse or remove any dog which is, owing to disease, savage disposition, or any other cause, not in a fit state for exhibition at a specific Show. Once a dog has been excluded or refused admission or has been removed from a Show because of disease, savage disposition or any other cause, it will not be brought into the Show at any time or under any circumstances.[, and] [t]The Show Secretary, on behalf of the Show Committee, shall submit [a written report] to the Secretary within seven (7) days of the close of the Show a written report supported by sworn statements of any witnesses and all other evidence available to the Show Committee at the time of the incident.

14.1 On the receipt of a written report [and a recommendation] from a Show Committee, which has refused or excluded or removed any dog from the precincts of a Show, the Chairman of the Executive Committee shall, at his discretion, be entitled to temporarily order the [debar] exclusion of such dog from further entry to or exhibition at any Show held under Kennel Union Regulations, such temporary order[ bar] to continue in force until the next [but one] meeting of the Executive Committee who shall, at such meeting, deal with the matter in accordance with the provisions of 14.3 hereunder. [after consideration of any representations lodged by or on behalf of the owner of the dog, either confirm or withdraw the bar so imposed.]

14.2 The Secretary shall on the making of an[y] order by the Chairman of the Executive Committee as provided for in Regulation 14.1 above, forward to the owner of the dog and all Provincial Councils, a copy of the temporary exclusion [barring] order [notice] and further inform[ing] such owner that he is entitled to submit a written representation supported by sworn statement/s of any witness/es and any other applicable evidence in this regard to reach the Secretary on a date which shall be not less than three (3) days before the date of the proposed next meeting of the Executive Committee.

14.3 The Executive Committeeshall consider the report and supporting evidence of the Show Secretary as well as the written representation and supporting evidence of the owner of the dog, if any, and may order a further investigation into the incident before making a determination, or proceed and confirm the temporary exclusion of the dog and determine at its discretion any appropriate procedures to be complied with and/or tests to be taken in order to have the exclusion withdrawn, or withdraw the imposed temporary exclusion or, after due consideration, recommend to the Federal Council that the dog is not fit for exhibition and request that the dog be permanently excluded from exhibition. The determination of the Executive Committee of what constitutes 'appropriate procedures to be complied with and/or tests to be taken’ as well as the timeframes set therefor,for the purpose of these Regulations, shall be final and binding.

14.4 The Secretary shall, on the making of any decision, determination and/or recommendation by the Executive Committee as provided for in Regulation 14.3 above, forward to the owner of the dog a notice informing him thereof and, if applicable, of the timeframes set for the appropriate procedures to be complied with and/or tests to be taken. Upon receipt by the Secretary of sufficient proof of compliance with the conditions set by the Executive Committee, or in the absence of any proof provided within the allotted timeframe, the matter must be forwarded to the Executive Committee for consideration and final determination to either withdraw the temporary exclusion, or to make a recommendation to the Federal Council as provided for in Regulation 14.5 hereunder.

14.[3]5 If, on recommendation of the Executive Committee, a dog is not fit for exhibition, the Federal Council shall be empowered to [debar] permanently exclude such dog from entry to, or exhibition at, any Show held under Kennel Union Regulations.

14.[4]6 In consequence of any decision reached under the provisions of Regulation 14, the Executive Committee shall be empowered to publish, [in] on the Kennel Union’s official website and Facebook pages, full details thereof and shall have the power to [extend such publication by circulating] circulate this information to Affiliated Clubs and Provincial Councils.

Clean proposal will therefore read:

A Show Committee will have the power to exclude, refuse or remove any dog which is, owing to disease, savage disposition, or any other cause, not in a fit state for exhibition at a specific Show. Once a dog has been excluded or refused admission or has been removed from the precincts of a Show because of disease, savage disposition or any other cause, it will not be brought into the Show at any time or under any circumstances. The Show Secretary, on behalf of the Show Committee, shall submit to the Secretary within seven (7) days of the close of the Show a written report supported by sworn statements of any witnesses and all other evidence available to the Show Committee at the time of the incident.

14.1 On the receipt of a written report from a Show Committee, which has refused or excluded or removed any dog from a Show, the Chairman of the Executive Committee shall, at his discretion, be entitled to temporarily order the exclusion of such dog from further entry to or exhibition at any Show held under Kennel Union Regulations, such temporary order to continue in force until the next meeting of the Executive Committee who shall, at such meeting, deal with the matter in accordance with the provisions of 14.3 hereunder.

14.2 The Secretary shall on the making of an order by the Chairman of the Executive Committee as provided for in Regulation 14.1 above, forward to the owner of the dog and all Provincial Councils, a copy of the temporary exclusion order and further inform such owner that he is entitled to submit a written representation supported by sworn statement/s of any witness/es and any other applicable evidence in this regard to reach the Secretary on a date which shall be not less than three (3) days before the date of the proposed next meeting of the Executive Committee.

14.3 The Executive Committee shall consider the report and supporting evidence of the Show Secretary as well as the written representation and supporting evidence of the owner of the dog, if any, and may order a further investigation into the incident before making a determination, or proceed and confirm the temporary exclusion of the dog and determine at its discretion any appropriate procedures to be complied with and/or tests to be taken in order to have the exclusion withdrawn, or withdraw the imposed temporary exclusion or, after due consideration, recommend to the Federal Council that the dog is not fit for exhibition and request that the dog be permanently excluded from exhibition. The determination of the Executive Committee of what constitutes 'appropriate procedures to be complied with and/or tests to be taken’ as well as the timeframes set therefor, for the purpose of these Regulations, shall be final and binding.

14.4 The Secretary shall, on the making of any decision, determination and/or recommendation by the Executive Committee as provided for in Regulation 14.3 above, forward to the owner of the dog a notice informing him thereof and, if applicable, of the timeframes set for the appropriate procedures to be complied with and/or tests to be taken. Upon receipt by the Secretary of sufficient proof of compliance with the conditions set by the Executive Committee, or in the absence of any proof provided within the allotted timeframe, the matter must be forwarded to the Executive Committee for consideration and final determination to either withdraw the temporary exclusion, or to make a recommendation to the Federal Council as provided for in Regulation 14.5 hereunder.

14.5 If, on recommendation of the Executive Committee, a dog is not fit for exhibition, the Federal Council shall be empowered to permanently exclude such dog from entry to, or exhibition at, any Show held under Kennel Union Regulations.

14.6 In consequence of any decision reached under the provisions of Regulation 14, the Executive Committee shall be empowered to publish, on the Kennel Union’s official website and Facebook pages, full details thereof and shall have the power to circulate this information to Affiliated Clubs and Provincial Councils.

Approved unanimously, as amended (indicated in red).

CI, LW

Effective 01.10.2017

4.5.5 Schedule 3 Regulation 43 - Breeder’s Diploma

Housekeeping:

BREEDER’S DIPLOMA

Upon written application being made on an official Kennel Union form, accompanied by the [fee] prescribed fee, the Executive Committee shall issue a Breeder’s Diploma to the breeder of every dog awarded its title of Champion and Grand Champion, provided such dog is registered in the Kennel Union Breed Registers.

Motivation:

At Fedco 12-2016, the Grand Champion title was added to Schedule 3 Regulation 42.1, but not carried through to Regulation 43.

Approved unanimously

CB, JB,

Effective 01.10.2017

Noted that the prescribed fee in Schedule 7 is ‘no charge’ for the time being.

Following the approval of the Grand Champion Regulations at Fedco 12-2016, it was agreed that a proposal for Supreme Champion would be presented for the Fedco 12-2017 agenda.

Work in progress.

CI to send draft proposal to Fedco members, who need to respond to CI with comments and suggested amendments. Based on the comments and suggestions, CI will then draft a formal proposal for consideration at Fedco 12-2017. LW recommended, in advance, that one of the requirements for Supreme Champion should be the successful completion of Canine Good Citizen (Bronze).

To be carried forward to next agenda.

4.5.7 Show Clearance Certificates

4.5.7.1 A Clearance Certificate for Exhibition only was issued in March 2016 and is valid for twelve months from the date of issue. Request received for the Clearance Certificate to be extended for a further 8 months after the expiry date, since the foreign owner and South African exhibitor wish the dog to be made up as s South African Grand Champion. The dog will be returned to its foreign owner before the end of December 2017.

Agreed unanimously by Fedco in February 2017 via e-mail round robin.

Ratified

4.5.7.2 A Clearance Certificate for Exhibition only was issued in February 2016 and is valid for twelve months from the date of issue. Request received for the Clearance Certificate to be extended for a further 3 months after the expiry date.

The dog was imported from USA and the foreign owner did not want to relinquish ownership by transferring the dog into the South African exhibitor’s name. It was anticipated that the dog would be registered in SA in the foreign owner’s name. The SA exhibitor attempted to commence the registration procedure, only to discover that FCI Standing Order Article 8:- For a dog to be eligible for entry in a studbook or appendix, its breeder/owner must have its legal residence inthe country where the dog will be registered applies to dogs registered in South Africa.

To overcome this problem, it was decided to register the dog in the joint ownership of the SA exhibitor and the foreign owner, which required fresh documentation to be obtained from the American Kennel Club.

While waiting for the documentation, they wished to continue entering shows.

Agreed unanimously by Fedco in February 2017 via e-mail round robin.

Ratified

4.5.7.3 Clearance Certificates – Applicants

Following the amendments made to Article 12 and Schedule 3 Regulation 7 with regard to mandatory membership of owners of dogs entered at Championship Shows (Ref Fedco 12-2016 item 4.1.1), Fedco is requested to confirm if this also applies to applicants for the following Clearance Certificates:

Does the foreign owner residing outside South Africa, who does not wish to relinquish ownership of their dog, have to become a KUSA member and pay the required election fee and 12 months’ subscription fee in order for the dog to be issued with a Clearance Certificate?

After discussion, it was agreed unanimously

that the foreign owner must become be a member of KUSA and pay the normal election and subscription fees.

CI, LW

Effective 01.02.2018.

4.5.7.4 Clearance Certificates – Policy

At Fedco 05-2002, it was agreed that the Clearance Certificate be extended to twelve (12) months. The following note appears on the Clearance Certificate:

“Clearance Certificates are valid for twelve months from the date of issue and are not renewable.”

Fedco to review current policy.”

In response to a request from LW, PM was asked to circulate a document for Fedco’s consideration, setting out the FCI’s and KUSA’s respective policies on foreign dog ownership.

To be carried forward to next agenda.

4.5.8 Minimum number of dogs to be present and exhibited in order to retain Championship Show-holding Status – Schedule 3 Regulation 1.2.2

At Fedco 06-2014, a moratorium was put in place effective from 1.10.2014 to 31.12.2017, during which there is no requirement for a minimum number of dogs to be present and exhibited in order for a Specialist Club or Group Club to retain Championship show-holding status. This system was to be monitored before deciding whether the Regulations should be amended, or voided.

Note:

During the moratorium, Clubs are required to pay the levy for the minimum numbers of dogs present and exhibited as per Schedule 3, even if fewer dogs than the prescribed minimum are present and exhibited. If the number of dogs present and exhibited is greater than the prescribed minimum number as per Schedule 3, the levy will be payable for all the dogs exhibited.

Statistical information was provided by Office.

It was agreed that the statistical information needed to be scrutinised for an ultimately decision on whether Schedule 3 should be amended. In the meantime, the moratorium is to be extended for a further four (4) years until 31.12.2021.

Agreed unanimously

LW, RD

4.5.9 Sight & Scent Hounds – Rhodesian Ridgeback

Proposal from Exco:

In 2005, the breeds in the Hound Group were divided into Sight and Scent Hounds. This classification was not an amendment to Schedule 2, but for use by Clubs which needed to split the judging of Hounds into Sight and Scent Hounds. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was classified as a Sight Hound.

As per a motivated request from the South African Ridgeback Club, Exco recommends to Fedco that the Rhodesian Ridgeback be re-classified as a Scent Hound.

Agreed unanimously

CI, GR

Effective 01.02.2018, but effective date subject to the South African Rhodesian Ridgeback Club having submitted all its outstanding documentation to KUSA, thereby also having avoided disaffiliation on 31 August 2017.

WORKING DISCIPLINES

5.1 Schedule 5A – Regulations for Obedience Classes

5.1.1 Regulation 4.1 Beginners Class

Proposal from National Obedience Sub-Committee:

Delete words in [square brackets] and insert words underlined:

Clause 4.1 Eligibility

[Handlers or] D[d]ogs which have won this class twice at a Championship Shows, scoring at least 90% on each occasion are not eligible to compete in any Beginners Class again. Dogs which have qualified in Novice Class or any higher class are not eligible to compete in any Beginners Class.

Motivation:

As it stands, an experienced handler is not able to ease a new dog into Obedience until it has been to at least the Novice level. This means that a dog is kept out of the ring for much longer and is denied the opportunity to acclimatise to the show environment as a youngster.

It is the dog that is the “Beginner”, not the handler.

This delay is also discouraging to the handler.

Approved, with one abstention.

RD, DP

Effective 01.01.2018

5.1.2 Obedience Participants to be KUSA Members

The National Obedience Sub-Committee has no fundamental objections to the concept of participants being members of KUSA, but objects strongly to the fees involved and proposes a fee of R200.00 per year with no entrance fee.

Motivation:

KUSA membership covers a wide range of services and privileges, most of which are not used or enjoyed by Obedience competitors. For the most part, they do not breed or judge or act in any official capacity within the KUSA structure. All they do is compete.

There was no support for this proposal. To discriminate between the different Disciplines was counter-productive at this stage, especially since the amendment to Article 12 had not even become effective.

3.6.17 Qualification of Judges for all versions of BH and Endurance Test

Approved unanimously

DP, JB

Effective 01.10.2017

5.3.2 By-Laws for IPO National Sub-Committee

The following changes to the By-Laws have been requested:

Under 3 - Interpretation of Terms - the addition of a new clause 3.9:

Selection Panel means a Panel appointed by the NIPOSC to investigate the Selection of the KUSA World Championship/Merit Team and to make recommendations to the NIPOSC in this regard.

Under 4 – Objects - the addition of a new clause 4.8:

To present to the Federal Council a list of names of the KUSA IPO Merit Team to participate at World Championship events.

Under 6 – Composition - it is requested that the term of office for a representative in 6.1 and 6.2 be reduced from four years to two years.

The addition of a new Annexure A “NIPOSC World Team Selection/Merit Panel”

The revised By-Laws, together with Annexure A are attached to the agenda.

Approved unanimously, with the exception of the proposed amendment to Clause 6 - Composition. Exco is currently reviewing By-Laws.

LW, JH

Effective 01.10.2017

5.4 TT – Schedule 5B (3) Regulations for Tracking Trials - nil

5.5 Working Utility Dog – Schedule 5B (4) – nil

(On future agendas/minutes, this item is to be placed with Working Trials (Classic))

5.6 Field Trials – Schedule 5C

The Field Trial Liaison Council has submitted the following proposal relating to mandatory membership for owners of dogs who enter KUSA Championship Shows:

It is strongly proposed that consideration be given to extend the exemption granted to owners entering specialist Breed Club Championship shows to include all specialist Championship Field Trial events. This amounts to a maximum of sixteen Championship Field Trials each year.

Note: If agreed, this would involve an adjustment to the amendment to Schedule 3 Regulation 7, which becomes effective on 01.02.2018:

Motivation:

The Field Trial Liaison Council has discussed the implications of the resolution made by Fedco and it was agreed that this decision will have a far-reaching impact on the specialist disciplines under the control of the FTLC.

A significant impact of this decision will be the loss of entries in Field Trial events. Field Trials do not draw large entry numbers when compared to other events. A reduction in entries could well lead to the demise of Field Trials.

For the same reasons advanced in 5.1.2 above, there was also no support for this proposal.

[The] A breed assessment [/survey] shall be carried out by a panel of not [less] fewer than two (2) SABOX-approved and appointed breed assessors. A breed survey shall be carried out by a panel of not [less] fewer than two (2) SABOX-approved and -appointed breed assessors and one (1) SABOX-approved disposition assessor, who must be a KUSA-recognised IPO judge.

Motivation:

The way this rule currently reads means that while a Breed Assessment requires two approved breed assessors (who are Boxer Specialist Judges), a Breed Survey (which includes an assessment of the guard and defence attributes of the Boxer being surveyed) could be carried out by only one breed assessor who is a Boxer Specialist Judge and one disposition assessor, who might not be a Boxer Specialist at all. The delegates at the last SABOX meeting agreed unanimously that the wording should be revised as stated above to ensure that the conformation evaluation should be done in an identical manner in Breed Assessments and Breed Surveys.

Following KUSA’s registration by the DAFF as the Registering Authority, it was necessary for KUSA not to be seen to be condoning KUSA-registered dogs being mated to dogs on registries not recognised by the DAFF.

At Fedco 12-2016, it was recommended that Schedule 9 - Code of Ethics - should be amended. The following amendment has been submitted by the NAPC:

Clause 2.13 amend to read:

Not knowingly permit any purebred dogs registered on the KUSA breed registers, to mate with a dog of a different breed, to a cross-bred dog, or to an unregistered dog of the same breed, or to any dog that is registered with any organisation, society or association that is not recognised by the Kennel Union of Southern Africa, save for permissible inter-variety matings between KUSA-registered dogs which are subject to the without prior approval of the Executive Committee.

Motivation/Explanation:

The NWSBTC and the PSBTC wish to express their concern about the fact that a number of KUSA members have already mated their KUSA-registered dogs to dogs of other dog registries in South Africa, for instance the SA Canine Breed Registry (SACBR) and Canine Registry and others.

KUSA has, since it was founded in 1891, never had to compete with other canine registering bodies in Southern Africa. In 2008, the SACBR was established and, since then, it has been able to get KUSA-registered dogs’ pedigrees and ancestry on its pedigrees through matings of their ‘registered’ dogs to KUSA’s registered dogs.

These registering bodies’ (SACBR and Canine Registry) pedigrees are not accepted by KUSA. Dogs on these registries are, however, registered and we therefore need to state that these registering bodies are not recognised by KUSA, even if some KUSA members argue that these dogs are registered.

There are a number of registering bodies worldwide that are recognised by the KUSA and these are all acceptable. We have to also remember that dogs are mated to dogs registered overseas and/or semen may be imported.

We therefore have to state clearly that only dogs registered by organisations, societies or associations recognised by the KUSA are allowed to be mated to KUSA-registered dogs.

By allowing KUSA members to use their stud dogs on dogs from other non-recognised registries means that KUSA’s information (database) is being provided free of charge to the other registries.

KUSA needs to protect its database and therefore this change to the Code of Ethics should be made and brought to the attention of all KUSA members. It will be the duty of the clubs to inform their members that this practice is not permitted under KUSA rules.

Agreed, subject to amended wording (indicated in red) to accommodate permissible inter-variety matings between, for instance, Weimaraner Long-haireds and Weimaraner Short-haireds, which are classified by KUSA as separate breeds under a single standard.

JH, CB

Effective 01.10.2017

6.2 Code of Ethics - Clause 2.1

Proposed by Exco:

Clause 2.1:

ensure that at all times such dogs are properly housed, watered, exercised, and transported and will receive Veterinary attention from a qualified person, as and when required.

Insert new Clause 2.21:

ensure that no dog is left confined in a vehicle or area exposed to the elements (heat or cold).

Renumber current 2.21 as 2.22

Approved unanimously

GR, DP

Effective 01.10.2017

BREED/LIAISON COUNCILS

7.1 Rottweiler Breed Council of KUSA (RBC)

Submissions by RBC as approved at RBC Meetings held in November 2016 and February 2017

HD/ED requirements for the importation of Rottweilers and semen for breeding purposes.

All Rottweilers being imported under twelve (12) months of age must be screened in South Africa once the animal is at least eighteen (18) months. Any HD/ED gradings given to Rottweilers under twelve (12) months of age are not accepted.

HD requirements for the importation of Rottweilers or semen for breeding or Championship purposes:

2.1.1 The animal must be x-rayed and scored over the age of twelve (12) 2.1.2 The animal must receive an official FCI/ADRK grading according to FCI/ADRK Regulations 2.1.3 Any grading given must either be performed or endorsed by the Veterinary University of the country, ADRK or hip dysplasia panel of the country. This must be clearly reflected on the official HD/ED certificate. Alternatively, the grading veterinarian must be officially recognised (in writing) by the Veterinary University of the country as being qualified to perform gradings according to the FCI system.

Or

2.1.4 Animals receiving an official recognised grading in a country (as per list lodged with KUSA by RBC) over the age of twelve (12) months are accepted. The following additional list of institutions is currently lodged with KUSA by RBC as approved:

2.1.5 If the dog fails to meet the above requirements, the animal must be regraded in South Africa over the age of eighteen (18) months.

Motivation:

Currently the Rottweiler breed has experienced a significant increase in the number of dogs being imported into South Africa. The RBC health convener received numerous requests from KUSA to approve HD & ED gradings for dogs that have been tested abroad. We are also in constant contact with both Prof Kirberger and KUSA to verify any new Institutions/Organisations abroad from which our breeders/exhibitors are importing. We receive requests from importers where dogs assessed by “unapproved vets”, as well from reputable organisations. The RBC does not prohibit the importation of dogs, but facilitates and ensures that the RBC and KUSA health requirements for HD and ED are maintained when these dogs are being bred from, and in particular where a reliance is placed on a grading that was not done through our KUSA regulations, but through other international institutions. We have seen individual cases where dogs have been re-graded in SA with results different from the international certifications. Additionally, we also acknowledge that the regulations in different FCI countries may vary.

However, in order for the RBC to remain current and maintain and extend the list of reputable institutions/organisations, we need to constantly update the RBC HD & ED requirements document to remain transparent to our breeders, as well as expand the list as new institutions are approved in conjunction with our correspondence with Prof Kirberger.

Approved

7.1.2 Schedule 5E(21) - Rottweiler Specialist Championship Shows

Proposal 2 re Judges Requirements:

At the 2016 Grand Victor Show, Meridian Rottweiler League was granted permission by Exco to allow 2 judges to officiate and to jointly decide on the main show winners. This practice is very common in Europe and added another dimension to the current show scene. On Exco’s advice, we also included a reserve judge should a casting vote be needed in the decision-making process. We found that exhibitors were very happy that the final decisions were made by two judges and not just one.

Therefore, we propose the updating of both the Specialist Show and Grand Victor schedules to include the option for clubs to invite 2 judges with a reserve judge.

Additionally, we have previously extended the list of approved international judges to include judges that have judged at the IFR for the past 10 years. In order to extend our pool of available international judges, we propose to extend this to add the ADRK Family show as part of this list as well. Both the IFR and ADRK World Family show draw from a pool of internationally acclaimed Rottweiler Specialist judges from all parts of the world and a judge officiating at these events is typically of the highest calibre.

Motivation:

This adds a new dimension for those clubs wishing to do so and received huge approval from exhibitors. Extending the list of reputable judges allows clubs more options for international, suitably qualified judges from a host of different countries, while maintaining the quality of our specialist shows.

Schedule amendments:

Regulation 5.1.2.2:

Insert words underlined:

Alternatively, any Rottweiler specialist judge from any country where he/she has judged at the IFR World show or the ADRK World Family show within the last 10 years, and who is also approved by KUSA in consultation with the RBC.

5.1.2.3 The host club may decide to invite two, three or even 4 judges and split judging responsibilities accordingly. This may either be done by sex or by selected classes. Should the club want multiple judges to judge CC, RCC, Best Puppy, BIS, etc., this may be done when the number of judges is uneven. A simple majority will determine the award. In the case where either 2 or 4 judges (an even number) are requested to judge any or some of these awards jointly, the club will be required to appoint a third qualified judge to act as a referee. In the event that the even number of judges (either 2 or 4) are unable to make a joint decision, the referee judge will be required to make the final decision.

The proposal is to rename the current Grand Victor Show to the South African Rottweiler Sieger Show, and the titles as follows:

Grand Victor to SA Sieger

Grand Victrix to SA Siegerin

Junior Grand Victor to SA Youth Sieger

Junior Grand Victrix to SA Youth Siegerin

Motivation:

The current name is peculiar to SA only, internationally the National Specialist Show winner is referred to as the National Sieger, or Siegerin, etc. As we fall more in line with international standards and as the world grows smaller, there is a growing need for our titles to be understood not only in SA, but also abroad. The proposed name and titles will be internationally recognised by judges and other countries.

Approved, subject to the “SA” in titles being changed to “ZA”.

Proposal 3.2:

The proposal is to align the current Grand Victor schedule with the Specialist show schedule with regard to the requirements for judges as well as the new proposals in no 2 of this document above.

Motivation:

This is to ensure consistency between all schedules

Amended Schedule 5E(18) attached to agenda.

Approved

7.1.4 NEW Schedule 5E (XX) – Regional Sieger Shows

Proposal 4:

We propose to create regional Grand Victor (Sieger) shows which will be rotated amongst the clubs in that region. These shows will be run under a new schedule, almost identical to that of the Grand Victor schedule. It will offer 3 regional titles which will be added to the pedigree.

“Regional” Sieger

“Regional” Siegerin

“Regional” Youth Sieger

“Regional” Youth Siegerin

The three regions will be Gauteng, Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal

Motivation:

It is hoped that this will encourage entries at specialist shows and increase attendance at “away” shows. At the same time, the proposal also caters for exhibitors unable to travel to the National show, to be able to compete for regional titles.

The Rottweiler Specialist shows continues to gain popularity and these shows have maintained or increased in numbers. We believe that this new introduction will further enhance and encourage support and healthy competition at specialist shows. Internationally, regional shows are common practice. We currently have 7 active clubs across the 3 regions and, presently, clubs need to wait 7 years before having the opportunity to host the National show. This will also encourage clubs to host premiere events with quality overseas judges.

The current KUSA Schedule 5F does not outline the detailed procedures and regulations to follow for a Breed Assessment or Breed Suitability Test. These guidelines have always been maintained by the Rottweiler Breed Council. A few years ago, after a particular Breed Assessment, we realised that our guidelines may not be clear and open to misinterpretation.

We have had several situations at BAs across the country where judges differ on whether to pass, defer, or fail dogs due to the difference of interpretation of the previous guidelines. Some examples experienced where confusion has been created:

Dog sits next to handler without any reaction.

Dogs moves behind owner without trying to flee.

Dogs showing signs of displacing without fleeing, etc.

We therefore propose a detailed Schedule for a Rottweiler Breed Assessment and Breed Survey.

Motivation

It is hoped that the new Schedule will provide clearer guidance to all judges and show committees as well as outline the detailed tests and assessment process to exhibitors. We have spent about two years refining and documenting the old guidelines into a revised Schedule. The Schedule also highlights various behaviours, conditions for deferrals, or failures and how to deal with dentition discrepancies. We believe that this is a marked improvement on our previous guidelines.

Revised Schedule attached.

Approved

All the proposed amendments in items 7.1 above were

Approved unanimously, subject to 7.1.3 where “SA” is to be amended to “ZA”.

LW, JH

Effective 01.10.2017

7.2 SABOX

See item 5.8.2 approved.

7.3 GSD Liaison Council

Definition of Specialist GSD Club on hold, pending negotiations. LW to liaise further with GSDLC and report back to Fedco.

GENERAL - nil

MATTERS BROUGHT FORWARD BY THE CHAIRMAN

9.1 Protection of Private Information

In order to comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act in respect of certain personal information published on the KUSA website under the ‘KUSA Judge Search’ banner, it was agreed that Judges should be given the option to log onto their Members’ Portal and, by selecting certain fields, hide the information appearing in those fields.

Following the introduction of the above new registers, a decision needed to be taken with regard to the fee structure. After discussion, it was agreed unanimously to charge the same fee for registration applications on all levels of the Appendix Register as the fee charged for registration on the Breed Register.

Schedule 7 to be updated accordingly.

9.3 Introduction of DNA Profiling & Parentage Verification

In accordance with international practice, mandatory DNA profiling should be introduced for imported and exported dogs. An amendment to Schedule 2 is to be prepared for the agenda of Fedco 12-2017. With regard to the introduction of DNA profiling for dogs registered in the KUSA area of jurisdiction, breeders should, in the meantime, be encouraged to do this on a voluntary basis. It was suggested that Dr Cindy Harper of the Onderstepoort Veterinary Genetic Laboratory be requested to write an article on the current trends, merits and benefits of DNA profiling. It was further suggested that additional information be obtained in respect of DNA profiling from imported frozen semen.

To be carried forward to next agenda.

9.4 Procedure for KUSA Classic Events

Flowchart tabled by LW. Adjustments were made and guidelines set for future applications to host the KUSA Classic.

9.5 Executive CommitteeArticle 18.1.2 – Amendment

KUSA’s Legal Adviser had alerted Fedco to the fact that it was inappropriate for the Chairman of the Federal Council to serve on Exco under the chairmanship of an Exco member and had recommended an amendment to Article 18.1.2.

It was resolved unanimously that Article 18.1.2 be amended as indicated below:

The Executive Committee established in terms of Article 14.1 shall comprise [of the Chairman Federal Council,] the Chairman of the Executive Committee and the appointed members.

JH, CI

Effective 01.02.2018

9.6 Naming of Clubs

Following the affiliation of a club with a strong rescue focus and a national membership, it was recognised that there was a need for greater flexibility in the naming of Clubs to make it possible for some Clubs to have a national reach. Federal Councillors were asked to apply their minds to a more flexible solution based on the particular circumstances, focus and membership base of a new Club to replace the current rigid policy of geographical confinement.

To be carried forward to next agenda.

9.7 Boerboel Club of Gauteng

Given the special circumstances currently applicable to the Boerboel breed in South Africa, the NAPC requested Fedco to grant for the same dispensation for the Boerboel Club of Gauteng as had been given to the Western Cape Boerboel Club at Fedco 12-2016.

Agreed. Article 9.3 makes provision for application for reinstatement within 15 months and it was further agreed that this period be extended in the case of the Boerboel Clubs in question until reinstatement of the Clubs becomes practicable.

9.8 All Breeds Shows and Specialist Shows held on the same day

There appears to be a misconception that the judging of All-Breeds Shows takes preference over that of Specialist Shows held on the same day, in that Specialist Shows are obliged to suspend all judging while the finals of the All-Breeds Shows are being judged.

It needs to be publicised that there is nothing in the Regulations to support the belief, propagated by some, that judging at a Specialist Show needs to be halted while the finals of an All-Breeds Show, held on the same day, are in progress.

9.9 Handler Entry Forms

The change to Article 12 necessitated the revision of the Handler Entry Form. It was agreed that the name of the owner of the dog being handled should be included on the entry form and that the owner should obviously be a member of KUSA. It was further agreed that the handler may only handle a dog that has been entered in the same Championship Show, in any Discipline.

The resultant changes to Regulations are the following:

Schedule 5K Regulations 3.5 and 3.8. Regulation 3.7 to be deleted.

Schedule 5E(12) Regulation 6.4 to be changed.

The above Schedule changes were agreed unanimously.

LW, CI

Effective 01.02.2017

CI undertook to review and amend all entry forms.

9.10 Withholding Best of Breed or Reserve Best of Breed awards from dogs entered in Champions Class

As there appeared to be some confusion regarding this, it was confirmed that a Judge is entitled to withhold the Best of Breed or Reserve Best of Breed awards from dogs entered in either the Dog, or Bitch, Champions Class, if no Challenge Certificate has been awarded to either Dogs, or Bitches.

DATES OF FUTURE MEETINGS

1st, 2nd & 3rd December 2017

The Secretary to provide a list of anticipated dates for Fedco meetings for the next three years, based on meetings being held in late June and early December (1st weekend).

There being no further business the meeting closed at 12h40 with a vote of thanks to the Chair and Staff. The Chairman thanked everyone for attending and working as a team.